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Hot water repairs and replacement, Northern Beaches
No hot water? Two quick checks tell you if it's a plumber job. If it's leaking or you can smell gas, act now.
Check the switchboard. If the tank is leaking, turn it off and call. If you smell gas, get outside and call the gas emergency line.
A licensed plumber can repair or replace it. Ask for the price before they start.
Quick checks before you call
Pick your system. Each takes a minute.
Start at the switchboard
Electric tanks usually have their own switch or breaker, which may be marked "hot water".
- Has the hot water breaker tripped?
- Flip it back once. If it trips again, leave it off and call.
Look at the unit
If the pilot flame has gone out, you get cold water. Gas work needs a licence in NSW, so don't open the unit.
- Is the gas on at the tap near the unit?
- Is there a flame, or an error code on the display?
- If it is out or won't stay lit, call.
Look for a display
A tripped breaker or an error code is the common cause. These units are not for DIY.
- Has the unit's breaker tripped?
- Note any error code on the controller, then call with it.
Still not working? Get a licensed plumber to look.
Stop and call if you see this
Water leaking from the tank
Turn off the power or gas. Close the cold water tap on the pipe going in. Then call. See emergency plumbing if water is spreading.
You can smell gas
Leave the house. Don't use light switches, phones or flames inside. Once outside, call your gas network's emergency line, or 000 if anyone is in danger.
Repair or replace?
Repair when the tank is sound and one part has failed. Replace when the tank itself is the problem.
| What you see | Usually means |
|---|---|
| Water pooling under the tank, or rust on it | Replace. A leaking tank can't be patched. |
| An older system that keeps failing | Can be worth replacing. |
| No hot water, tank dry and sound | Can be a repair: a thermostat, element or valve. |
Why a licensed plumber
Hot water and gas work need a licence in NSW. It is a safety matter, because of the gas, power and pressure involved. Ask your plumber for a compliance certificate for the work.
If water from the unit has damaged your home, ask your insurer if they need a plumber's report.
Which system suits your home?
Your home changes what you can fit.
Usually possible
- Several system types, if there's space and power or gas
Still check
- Gas supply, and any council or heritage limits
Can be limited
- Space: a balcony or cupboard may only fit a small unit
- Gas: some units have no safe flue route
Ask your strata first
- Changing the type of system, or where it sits
What changes the price
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Repair or replace | A part is cheaper than a new system. |
| Swapping type | Gas to electric, or the reverse, needs extra pipe, wiring or a flue. |
| Time of day | Nights and weekends usually cost more. |
Thinking about a new system? Ask about your options before you decide.
Each plumber sets their own price. Ask for it before work starts. Asking is free. Also see leak detection and blocked drains.
Hot water by suburb
Pick your suburb for local advice, then ask for a callback.
- Hot water in Dee Why NSW 2099
- Hot water in Manly NSW 2095
- Hot water in Collaroy NSW 2097
- Hot water in Narrabeen NSW 2101
- Hot water in Warriewood NSW 2102
- Hot water in Mona Vale NSW 2103
- Hot water in Belrose NSW 2085
- Hot water in Curl Curl NSW 2096
- Hot water in Forestville NSW 2087
- Hot water in Brookvale NSW 2100
- Hot water in Cromer NSW 2099
- Hot water in Frenchs Forest NSW 2086
- Hot water in Freshwater NSW 2096
- Hot water in Balgowlah NSW 2093
- Hot water in Terrey Hills NSW 2084
- Hot water in Newport NSW 2106
- Hot water in Avalon Beach NSW 2107
Hot water questions
Can I replace a hot water system myself?
No. In NSW, hot water installs and gas work need a licensed plumber.
Is a small drip from the relief valve normal?
Some dripping while the tank heats can be normal. A steady flow, or water from the tank itself, is not. Turn off the power or gas and call.
Will insurance or my landlord cover it?
If you rent, tell your landlord or agent first. Hot water is usually theirs to fix. If you own, check your policy. Some cover sudden damage, not a worn-out tank. A plumber's report can help.
Not sure if it's a repair or a replacement? Tell us about your system and a licensed plumber can take a look.
Get a hot water callback
A licensed plumber calls you to book a time that suits.